Information

Description

Golden Bay, under two hours' drive west of Nelson at the north of the South Island, is one of those magical New Zealand places that Kiwis would probably prefer to keep secret. Golden Bay is a mecca for backpackers and Takaka town is the perfect base for exploring the many nearby sights and attractions, especially Abel Tasman National Park. Just a half hour's drive away from Takaka is the start of the Abel Tasman Track at the delightful Wainui Bay or one hour to Totaranui beach. Closer to Takaka are the famous Te Waikoropupu (Pupu) Springs, a sacred place for local Maori and considered to be the clearest fresh water springs in the world.

Golden Bay is well-known for its golden beaches like Tata and Wainui and famous Pohara and Wharariki but also has many beautiful rivers, tramps and native bush. Go sea kayaking, visit the Wainui falls, go for a 4-wheel drive tour down Farewell Spit, have a caving adventure on Takaka Hill, take a trip to Wharariki beach to see seals, go horse trekking along the beach or explore the sea caves or Pillar Point Lighthouse. There is simply too much to do in Golden Bay, you’ll need to stay at the YHA Golden Bay hostel for a month.

By Car:

109km from Nelson on SH60. As you pass Takaka i-site on your left hand side, turn right at the first turning. We are about 200m on your left hand side from there.

By Bus/Shuttle:

Walk or kayak the Abel Tasman Track at Abel Tasman National Park, a half hour's drive from YHA Golden Bay in Takaka.

Visit Te Waikoropupu (Pupu) Springs – the amazing freshwater clarity has to be seen to be believed

Check out the great nearby beaches, especially Pohara and Wharariki with its sea caves, horse treks and wild seals.

Events

Explore Yourself(Dec 12th - Dec 18th)“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” - Aristotle
An interactive yoga lifestyle retreat with practical tools to bring into your daily life. Give yourself the space and time to learn more about ...Anahata Yoga Retreat

Ron Valente's - Open Mic(Nov 10th - Feb 2nd 2017)Open Mic Night hosted by Ron Valente (Gypsy Pickers) at the Brigand Cafe, Takaka. Every Thursday. This is a popular night for locals and travellers. Bring your instruments, songs and dancing shoes for a fun and ...The Brigand Cafe and Bar

Infinite One Festival - New Years 2016-17(Dec 30th - Dec 30th)Welcoming all humans into an exploration of community. 4 days of music, arts, workshops and performance, encircled by beautiful New Zealand bush and the lush Cobb Valley river.
- Multiple music zones
- Workshops, ...Takaka, Golden Bay, New Zealand

Gypsy Pickers - Golden Bay NYE(Dec 31st - Dec 31st)The Gypsy Pickers will be welcoming in the New Year at the Penguin Cafe Bar, Pohara, Golden Bay. A great spot by the beach, with affordable meals, a nice bar and room to boogie!
Gypsy Pickers, "Hot rhythms and ...Penguin Cafe & Bar